Looking for a job isn’t easy. And landing that first interview is even harder, especially in the current post-recessionary job market—so some may be tempted to “fluff up” their resumes to increase the response rate from potential employers. However, as Yahoo’s CEO Scott Thomas recently learned the hard way, that really isn’t a good idea.

Granted, the majority of job seekers aren’t in the public eye like Thompson, and hopefully, not many would think they can lie outright on their resumes about their work experience or education and get away with it. Fact is, most employers will run background checks. And in light of the Yahoo scandal, companies are likely to be more vigilant about vetting a potential hire’s experience and education.

So, long story short: It’s fine to be a word wizard and describe your work experience and education as creatively as you like. But whatever you do, don’t’ lie—the truth will either come to light during the interview process or when the background check results come back. And the more honest you are about your experience and knowledge, the more likely you’ll find a job or career that’s right for you.

I hear it from friends who are currently in the job market—they’re submitting resumes, going to interviews, and yet many of them still wonder, “What exactly are companies looking for in an employee?”

As it (unsurprisingly) turns out, each company looks for different qualities. The size and type of business, company culture and even the product all play a role in what firms desire in their employees. A recent Bloomberg Businessweek article interviewed CEOs of several large companies, asking them what qualities an ideal employee should possess and demonstrate on the job. One CEO looks for people with skills the company currently lacks. Another tests teamwork potential by having potential hires interact with employees from different departments in the interview process.

But one thing all the interviewed CEOs look for, said in one way or another, is a candidate who thinks. They don’t want an automaton sitting at a desk completing tasks—they want someone who can solve problems or think of creative ways to approach a problem. The takeaway? To make a good impression, be interested and engaged in the business, and be prepared to talk about your ability to make it run even better.

A lengthy job search can be trying—when you’re on the hunt for a while, it’s easy to get discouraged. And if you let that discouragement demotivate you or impact your conversations with potential employers, it can hinder your progress. Yet the reverse is also true, as Career Builder puts it: “Having a good attitude, on the other hand, can help your cause as much as a bad one can hurt it.”

Most aspects of a job search—like whether you get interviews and callbacks—are out of your hands, but attitude is one thing you can control. One good way to do this is to think of the attitudes hiring managers look for, and how you’ve embodied them—remembering your accomplishments will help you feel more confident.

A “can-do” attitude: Let them know you’re the person who can step in quickly, work efficiently and lighten the team’s burden.

“I’m an awesome team player; not a lone wolf”: Working well with people is a must—collaboration helps breed new ideas, and when people feed off each other creatively, a better product usually results. Give concrete examples of successful collaborations you’ve been part of.

“I am determined; I run through walls to get the job done”: Have you overcome obstacles to complete a task or create a new product? Tell your interviewer how your persistence has paid off.